Diamonds Defeat England in Newcastle
Australia has defeated England 62-47 in Newcastle in the first of a three test series against the world number three.
A strong first quarter from the Diamonds set them on course for victory with acting captain Cath Cox – standing in for injured captain Natalie von Bertouch – on song under the ring in the first half, shooting 21/23 ( 91%) and surpassing a tally of 2000 international goals on the way.
Despite an improved performance from England in the second half, with the visitors outscoring the Diamonds by one goal in the third quarter, the match was never in doubt after the strong first half, with the Diamonds leading at every quarter and coasting to a comfortable 15 goal victory.
New coach Lisa Alexander, leading the Diamonds for the first time, ran her entire bench during the match. Acting vice-captain Julie Corletto continued her outstanding form from the World Netball Championships and was named Player of the match.
WAIS athlete Caitlin Bassett was introduced at half time, replacing her new club teammate Cath Cox. Bassett – who scored the winning goal in the world championship final against New Zealand – carried on Australia’s attacking momentum with 21 goals alongside Medhurst as the Diamonds staked a 1-0 lead in the three Test series against England.
The second Test will be played on the 12thin Canberra.
– with netball Australia